Durban City coach Eric Tinkler believes the demanding football calendar may have contributed to Mamelodi Sundowns' disappointing exit from the CAF Champions League, raising questions about the physical demands placed on players competing in several competitions.

Sundowns were knocked out of the tournament after losing their qualification battle against Angola's Wiliete SC. The result surprised many observers, including Tinkler, who expected the South African club to progress because of the quality within its squad.

Tinkler said the modern game has become increasingly demanding, with teams expected to compete across numerous tournaments while playing a large number of matches. He suggested that the accumulated workload could eventually affect even successful teams.

He believes fatigue may have caught up with Sundowns after years of competing at a high level. The club has regularly had to balance domestic commitments with continental football, leaving players with limited opportunities to recover between matches.

Durban City, meanwhile, are preparing for their own continental challenge after qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage. They have been placed in Group B alongside AS FAR of Morocco, Azam of Tanzania and Al Ahli Tripoli of Libya.

Before turning their attention fully to continental competition, Tinkler's side must face Sundowns in a league match at Royal Bafokeng Stadium on Saturday evening. The coach said his team would approach the encounter with the intention of collecting points rather than simply defending.

Tinkler acknowledged the quality of the Sundowns squad but insisted that his players would try to impose their own style. Do you think the congested football calendar is making it harder for top clubs to maintain consistent performances?

Source: https://www.sowetan.co.za/sport/soccer/2026-10-30-tinkler-next-targets-scalp-of-fatigued-downs/